Centerpoint's Dan Astleford leads American Heart Association's 2023 Heart Walk

Kansas City, Mo. — Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in Kansas City and across the nation. Dan Astleford, chief operating officer of Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence, Missouri, is working hand-in-hand with the American Heart Association to change health outcomes. Astleford will serve as chairman for the Kansas City Heart Walk. The community campaign is focused on engaging local companies, corporations and their employees to join the fight against heart disease and stroke.  

“We are grateful that Dan has stepped into this role with enthusiasm, says Laura Lopez, executive director of the American Heart Association in Kansas City. “The Kansas City Heart Walk is one of our premier fundraising events. It brings the community together to connect with survivors and celebrate medical advancements made thanks to funds raised by the American Heart Association. HCA Midwest Health has been longtime supporters of the American Heart Association, and their employees have showed up in many ways to help us fight against heart disease and stroke.” 

Since 2019, Astleford has provided executive oversight of hospital ancillary and support functions, service line development, ethics and compliance and campus construction. Some of his accomplishments include expanding cardiovascular, neurosurgical and oncology service lines, increasing employee and physician engagement and enhancing patient care and satisfaction at Centerpoint Medical Center. 

“It’s an honor to serve as chairman for the Kansas City Heart Walk,” says Astleford. “Most people are unaware that heart disease is largely preventable. The Kansas City Heart Walk is a great way to get the community moving, while educating them on lifestyle changes they can make, and the positive impact American Heart Association makes in our region.” 

The Kansas City Heart Walk will be held on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023 at the Power & Light District, downtown Kansas City. The celebration begins at 8 a.m. and the walk will start at 9 a.m. This will be the 29^th Heart Walk held in Kansas City. The event is free for the public to attend and is child and pet friendly.